Quintana Roo Restaurants Face 55 Closures, 500 Job Losses

Cancun, Quintana Roo — The restaurant industry estimates the loss of approximately 500 direct jobs during 2026 and the closure of at least 55 businesses that did not survive the crisis. José Julio Villarreal Zapata, president of the National Chamber of the Restaurant and Seasoned Food Industry (Canirac) in Quintana Roo, said the state could end 2026 with between 50 and 55 establishments closed as a result of the economic difficulties facing the sector, with most closures concentrated in destinations such as Tulum.

Closures Spread Across Destinations

Villarreal Zapata noted that the last few months have been particularly difficult for restaurants, and that November still represents a period of uncertainty because many establishments continue to operate at a loss. Given this scenario, he estimated that business closures could translate into the loss of approximately 500 direct jobs, considering an average of 10 workers per establishment.

He said that in places such as Tulum there has been a higher number of business closures, but closures have also occurred in Cancún, Playa del Carmen, and other destinations. He noted that the situation is more widespread throughout the country and even in destinations such as Miami, where closures and operational difficulties have also been observed.

Operators Adjust as Costs Rise

Villarreal Zapata explained that while some restaurants have had to close permanently, other business owners have chosen to reduce their operating costs by moving to smaller premises and decreasing the number of tables and chairs in order to adjust their capacity to current demand.

He said the economic situation facing the productive sector is general and could make it difficult to meet some employer obligations at the end of the year, including the payment of Christmas bonuses. He indicated that many companies are already using their savings, looking for alternatives, and some are seeking loans through programs of the Ministry of Economy and Nacional Financiera (Nafin), particularly those with preferential rates that allow companies to cushion their expenses, although he acknowledged that access is not always easy.

Holiday Expectations and 2027 Outlook

Despite these indicators, Villarreal Zapata highlighted that the industry maintains the expectation of achieving an increase of up to 15% in the number of diners during the Day of the Dead celebrations, for which establishments prepare special dishes and promotions. He described this as a significant relief for the sector, but acknowledged that these challenges, including the year-end results, still create an uncertain outlook for 2027, primarily due to the constant increase in input costs, operating expenses, taxes, and measures that will need to be implemented, such as reducing working hours.

He said each of these factors is exerting increasing pressure, and that it is hoped the tourism sector will experience a positive response so the industry can continue moving forward.